Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Rosenberg.
Kelly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My husband Paul owned and operated the Bobber Shop Fishing store on Riverfront Dr. in Mankato, MN for 15 years before it became time to close doors. His mother owned an occasional store in Spencer, IA which sparked my idea to turn the Bobber Shop into one as well. I had been flipping furniture for years and knew some very talented people, so I knew it would be a good fit.
Initially, we were only open one weekend each month while I still worked my full time job in Marketing. Eventually, we transitioned to being open every weekend, and I’ve been doing this full time for 5 years.
Now Mankato Vintage Market, offers a large section of vintage furniture, handcrafted items and antiques. We also carry high-quality seasonal decor, handmade signs, jewelry, Fusion Mineral Paint, handmade soaps and so much more from our amazing vendors!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting a new business is a lot different than buying an existing business. We had to close the Bobber Shop, have an auction, find new vendors, and get the word out about the new store all in one month! All while working full time at my Marketing job. There are always growing pains and learning about the ins and outs of owning a business too. We also lost my Mom and both of our dogs, (one was our very loved store Greeter) while we were also navigating Covid. We survived being shut down by doing live sales on Facebook, which is something I’d never done before. One thing about being the owner is, you will do whatever needs to be done. You figure it out.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Mankato Vintage Market?
We sell a mix of antiques, vintage, handmade and new home decor and furniture. We are known for our beautiful vintage and antique furniture, some freshened up with paint and some left to their own beauty. We have the most talented makers, specializing in stained glass, handmade soap, baby items, jewelry, signs and furniture made from reclaimed wood. If you’re looking for seasonal decor and gifts, you’ll find unique and high-quality items at great prices.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Just start. The timing will never be perfect, you just have to start. Don’t be afraid to start small and grow slowly. Do one thing and do it well. Be unique. It will be scary to put yourself out there. Just start!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mankatovintagemarket.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mankatovintagemarket/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MankatoVintageMarket
- Other: www.tiktok.com/@mankatovintagemarket
Image Credits
Offbeat Artistry
